If there's a "golden rule" of motherhood, it's this: when you find a good babysitter, you hold on for dear life. You pay them well and you guard their phone number like it's the last the hope diamond.

I have a babysitter like this. She started with us when she was 13, and she's about to turn 17. She is more like an extra daughter than someone I employ, and I thank the gods for her on a pretty regular basis.

Because I know not every babysitter is like her. There are saints. There are big sisters. And then there are the horror stories. Trying to scout out childcare for the kiddos? Here's a little taste of just who you're going to find out there!

The Big Sister

She's old enough to babysit but not so old that she doesn't remember what it was like to want to blow bubbles and roll in the grass. She invites your kid over for dinner and buys her little presents just because. They're two peas in a pod.

You're only worry is what is going to happen when she goes off to college.

The Blabbermouth

There are no secrets when the blabbermouth's in charge. Trying to keep the latest national tragedy from upsetting your kids? Ooops! Trying to surprise your kids with a new swingset? Cat's outta the bag.

You keep the blabbermouth because the kids have fun, but you're still looking for "the one."